Serena Williams Loses U.S. Open, Screaming At Referee ‘You’re a Thief’

It’s clear that this weekend’s U.S. Open is going down in history as Serena Williams lost against Naomi Osaka in a rather unordinary way. The tennis legend was given a violation from chair umpire Carlos Ramos for illegal coaching from her player box during the first set. 

She ended up telling Carlos, “I don’t cheat to win, I’d rather lose. I’m just letting you know.” After receiving the game penalty for court violation, she again told Ramos, “You will never, ever, ever be on another court of mine as long as you live. You are the liar. When are you going to give me my apology? You owe me an apology. Say it. Say you’re sorry. … And you stole a point from me. You’re a thief, too!”

When the match ended, she ended up hugging Naomi for her victory but later refusing to shake the umpire’s hand as she continued to demand an apology while the crowd booed. 

Serena said at the post-match ceremony, “Well, I don’t want to be rude, I don’t want to do questions. [Osaka] played well, this is her first Grand Slam. I know you guys were here rooting. Let’s make this the best moment we can. Let’s not boo anymore. We’re gonna get through this and we’re gonna be positive. No more booing!”

Naomi, who was still under the spotlight due to people’s chanting for Serena to win, said, “I know that everybody was cheering for her. I’m sorry it had to end like this. I just want to say thank you for watching the match.”